Talk'n Hawks

Those of you who read me on any kind of regular basis, know what a fan I am of Ben Smith (#28). A quick refresher, or for you first timers, Ben came up at the end of last season (from Rockford) with about 4 or 5 games left. He did such a great job that he stayed on the roster for the 7 game playoff series against Vancouver, spending quite a bit of time on the first line. When the preseason started, things were going well for him until another B. Smith (Detroit) knocked out with a concussion on a head hit. In my opinion, he never really fully recovered. He was up and down a couple of times this season. Well now there’s this news form a Rockford Ice Hogs press release.

The following statement was issued today (Thursday) by Chicago Blackhawks Head Team Physician Dr. Michael Terry:

“Ben Smith has suffered a right hip labral tear and a hernia. He will undergo endoscopic surgery next Thursday (March 15) to repair both issues. We anticipate a full recovery in approximately 16 weeks.”

Smith, 23, has recorded two goals in 13 games with Chicago this season. Additionally, the Avon, Connecticut, native ranks third on the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs with 15 goals, including a team-high eight power-play markers, and ranks fourth with 31 points in 38 AHL tilts.